When should I introduce chores and pocket money?
At three years old, your child is often a very keen little helper – the groans and backtalk will come one day! You may be wanting to take advantage of this positive attitude and teach them some beginner chores and life skills. Giving them some responsibility and a couple of dollars in pocket money can be a good start.
Chores
Responsibility is learned at a very young age. Following your path and getting involved is all your little one wants to do at this age. While they are still eager to, it’s great to explain to them the ways they can help around the house.
Encourage them with praise by saying, “if you pick up your clothes it’s a huge help!” Explaining it in this emotional way makes the necessity stick a bit more and will make them feel important.
At this age, they’re not able to start doing dishes or anything like that, so take it slow and ease them into it with these:
- Pick up their clothes and put them in a hamper
- Pick up their toys after playtime
- Help out when making their bed
- Fill the dog’s water bowl
Kids are eager to use their hands to pick up everything at this age. The curiosity is never-ending as their dexterity is getting better. From this, you can help them improve their skills while they help you. Simply start off by showing them the steps and they will follow suit pretty quickly. Using supportive language will make them feel like they’re important and doing well. On top of that, showing care to your pets will further their bond and understanding of how to take care of living things.
Pocket money
Whether you like it or not, kids are sponges and will start to understand a basic concept of money from a very young age. You might want to wait until 4 or 5 years old, but if you think they’re ready to gain some more skills they can begin to understand the basics of how to manage money around the house.
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When Should I Give Them Pocket Money?
Once they have a decent understanding that money will get them things and then the money will be gone, they are on the right track. Take time to explain that money is important and spending it is how you get the things you want or need. If they demonstrate this knowledge in conversations, you can set aside a few dollars.
How much money?
Depending on what you think is reasonable, you can start making some guidelines. Take into consideration if you want them to be doing chores for their allowance or how much is too much. Start off with a small amount and work your way up if they are showing responsible habits.
Chores and pocket money combined
These two can go hand in hand and be a great way for them to learn. If you explain that hard work gets some extra money for fun things, they will begin to comprehend the exchange of money. However, you don’t want them to assume that if they do chores they will always reap a reward. If you’re hoping to motivate them to do chores more often, money can be a good incentive. On the other hand, chores may be a household responsibility with no reward. It is entirely up to your family and the rules you want to set. It’s unlikely that your little one will understand this exact exchange for another few years, but you can plan for the future early and decide what works for your family.
Overall, setting up responsibility for your child is vital for their development. As they grow up they will have better tools to work hard, manage money, and find their place socially. We all have to start somewhere!
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